Page 124 of Butter My Biscuit

She has that nervous look on her face, and I wonder if she’s having jitters. The last thing I want is for her to be nervous, not when she’s marrying Harrison.

“Do you believe in miracles?” I ask.

“Sometimes. Just kinda depends.”

I shift from one foot to the other, wondering if I should share this information with her. She’ll find out soon enough anyway. Everyone will.

“I quit my job today, so I’ve got all the time in the world to focus on this and help.”

She squeals, hugging me. “It’s like it was meant to be. You’re going to be the best wedding planner ever.”

“Consider it a gift to you guys. I’m happy for you.”

She continues walking through the space, and I follow her, making different notes.

“I think I’ve got it all. Once I get home and do some research, I’ll text you some questions to make sure we’re on the same page. Anything else before I go?” I ask, not wanting to linger too long.

“There isonething.” She clears her throat and wipes her palms on her dress. “Look, I know you and Harrison hooked up.”

I open my mouth and close it, but don’t say anything. I crossed my heart and promised Harrison I’d never mention a word about us to anyone, and admitting it to his fiancée isn’t something I can do.

But before I can jump to conclusions, she continues, “When I asked him, he looked at me the same way you’re looking at me right now, but … he didn’t admit it either. But sometimes, you just know without anyone telling you.”

“I’m sorry, Stephanie, but I can’t have this conversation,” I admit, needing to escape this place because I won’t lie or deny.

“I saw the scratches on his back when he got home from Hawaii. And I know you had a hickey on your neck when you returned. Several people in town noticed too.”

Now, my pulse gallops in my chest, but I stand firm. I know I was stupid and should’ve worn a turtleneck to the grocery store after I returned.

She sighs. “I’m not pissed at either of you. Harrison and I had a mutual agreement that we weren’t exclusive untilforeverwas in the picture. And now, we’re engaged …”

I look down at the diamond ring on her finger. The chandelier casts light on it that makes it sparkle.

“He’s promised me nothing is going on and that you’reonlyfriends, but I want a confirmation from you before I go through with this. If there is an inkling of hope, I’ll call it all off. I don’t want to get married just to get a divorce. Please, Grace.”

I listen to every single word, and by the look on her face, I know she’s being sincere. There is no way I’ll be the one to stop this wedding. I’m not a home-wrecker. Harrison and I weren’t meant to be together. I’ve realized that, and I’m more concerned with working to get him back as my friend over anything else.

I meet her eyes. “There’s nothing between us. It’s a line that will never be crossed—you have my word. When Harrison commits to someone, he won’t cheat. He’s a good man,” I confirm, knowing he has integrity when he’s in a solid relationship. “Plus, I’d never do anything to ruin this for you or him. You both deserve to be happy …together.”

I swallow hard, and I think the shards of my shattered heart crack more. Didn’t even know that was possible.

A relieved sigh escapes her. “Thank you. I really want us to be friends and have a relationship. Can we have a fresh start?”

She holds out her hand, and I take it.

“I’d like that.”

We shake on the promise I just gave her, and I have no hard feelings.

Or maybe I’m numb to it all?

I go home and feel like I need to puke. I rush to the bathroom and dry-heave over the toilet, and Remi walks in, staring at me.

“Are you okay?”

I stand and grab a towel. “I feel like shit.”

“Maybe you have a cold or something. Or you’re pregnant.”

---